What is the Difference Between Mpox and COVID-19?

Mpox and COVID-19 are both viral infections, exhibiting overlapping symptoms such as fever, cough, and fatigue. Identifying the specific infection a person might have in the initial phases can be challenging without adequate testing due to the closely resembling symptoms.

Since mpox is spreading at a very fast pace, almost covering 120 countries, it was evident that mpox might be the new 'COVID-19' in terms of its global impact. 

Based on a statement from a WHO official, it's important to note that MPox isn't the same as COVID-19, indicating that the chances of another COVID-19-like pandemic are very low.

So, what's the difference between mPox and COVID-19? Let's understand their differences in terms of transmission, severity, and potential long-term effects on health. 

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Symptoms: How to Tell Them Apart

Mpox and COVID-19 share some initial symptoms, but they also have distinct characteristics that can help differentiate them. 

Mpox Symptoms

Mpox is marked by a unique rash that progresses from flat lesions to fluid-filled blisters, typically starting on the face and spreading to other body parts. Other common symptoms of mpox include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion. 

COVID-19 Symptoms

In contrast, COVID-19 symptoms often include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or diarrhoea. 

While both illnesses can present with fever and malaise, the presence of a rash is a key indicator of mpox.

Transmission: Different Routes

The transmission routes for mpox and COVID-19 differ significantly.

Mpox Transmission

Mpox primarily spreads through direct contact with the rash, scabs, or bodily fluids of an infected person. It can also be transmitted through respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face interactions and by touching contaminated objects such as bedding. Additionally, sexual contact can facilitate the spread of mpox.

COVID-19 Transmission

In contrast, COVID-19 is mainly transmitted via respiratory droplets and aerosols when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. The virus can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face.

Risk Factors: Who is More Vulnerable?

Both mpox and COVID-19 have specific risk factors that make certain populations more vulnerable to severe illness.

Mpox Risk Factors

For mpox, young children, individuals with weakened immune systems (including those living with HIV), and pregnant individuals are at higher risk for complications.

COVID-19 Risk Factors

On the other hand, COVID-19 poses greater risks to older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or obesity. Additionally, vaccination status plays a significant role in determining vulnerability; unvaccinated individuals are at a higher risk for severe outcomes from COVID-19.

Treatment and Prevention: What to Do

Treatment and prevention strategies for mpox and COVID-19 differ based on their nature and transmission methods. 

Mpox Treatment and Prevention

For mpox, supportive care is typically provided to manage symptoms, while vaccination may be recommended for those exposed or at higher risk. Practising good personal hygiene and avoiding close contact with infected individuals are essential preventive measures.

COVID-19 Treatment and Prevention

In contrast, COVID-19 management includes isolation or quarantine for infected individuals and social distancing to reduce transmission. Vaccination remains a cornerstone of prevention against COVID-19, along with maintaining personal hygiene practices like handwashing and wearing masks in crowded settings.

Vaccination: Protecting Yourself

Vaccination plays a critical role in protecting against both mpox and COVID-19.

Mpox Vaccination

For mpox, the smallpox vaccine offers some level of protection due to similarities between the two viruses; specific vaccines such as JYNNEOS and ACAM2000 may be administered during outbreaks or for those at high risk of exposure.

COVID-19 Vaccination

In the case of COVID-19, several vaccines have been developed and widely distributed globally—such as Covishield, Covaxin, Novavax, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Moderna—which have proven effective in reducing the risk of severe disease and hospitalisation.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Knowing When to Act

Knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial for both mpox and COVID-19. 

Mpox: When to Seek Medical Care

Individuals who suspect they have contracted mpox—especially if they exhibit characteristic symptoms like a rash—should seek medical care promptly to confirm the diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment. Severe cases or complications may require immediate attention. 

COVID-19: When to Seek Medical Care

Similarly, anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 should consult a healthcare provider if they have been exposed to the virus or if their symptoms worsen significantly. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes in both diseases.

The Importance of Early Detection: Why It Matters

Early detection of both mpox and COVID-19 is vital for effective management and control of outbreaks. 

Mpox: Early Detection

For mpox, recognising symptoms early helps prevent further transmission within communities and allows for timely medical intervention to manage complications effectively.

COVID-19: Early Detection

In the case of COVID-19, early detection enables quicker isolation of infected individuals and facilitates contact tracing efforts that are essential in controlling spread.

Dispelling Myths and Misinformation: Setting the Record Straight

Misinformation surrounding mpox and COVID-19 can hinder public health efforts; thus, it’s important to address common myths. 

Mpox Myths and Misconceptions

For example, many believe that mpox is a new disease; however, it has been known for decades but has recently gained attention due to outbreaks. Another misconception is that MPox spreads as easily as COVID-19; in reality, it requires close contact for transmission. 

COVID-19 Myths and Misconceptions

Regarding COVID-19 myths, some people underestimate its seriousness by claiming it is not life-threatening; however, it can lead to severe illness or death in vulnerable populations. Additionally, there are misconceptions about vaccine efficacy; studies consistently show that approved vaccines significantly reduce the risk of severe disease from COVID-19.